Daniel 5:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 5:31
31 And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old.
Chapter Context
Daniel 5 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, worship, love. Written during the Babylonian and Persian periods (c. 605-530 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Demonstrates faithful living under foreign rule during the Babylonian and Persian empires.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Daniel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Daniel 5:31
31 And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old.
Analysis
The chapter concludes with stark simplicity: 'And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old.' This verse fulfills the interpretation's final element—'thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians' (v.28). The overnight transition from Babylonian to Medio-Persian control demonstrates prophecy's accuracy and God's sovereign control over kingdoms. Babylon, thought impregnable due to massive walls and substantial supplies, fell through stratagem (Cyrus's forces diverted the Euphrates, entered via the riverbed). The timing—during Belshazzar's feast—fulfilled Isaiah and Jeremiah's prophecies of sudden judgment. Darius the Mede (possibly Cyrus's general or governor; historical identification debated) represents the shift in imperial power prophesied in chapter 2's statue (from bronze to iron) and fulfilled in history.
Historical Context
Historical sources (Herodotus, Xenophon, Berossus) confirm Babylon fell to Cyrus's Persian forces in 539 BC, apparently without major battle—treachery or stratagem enabled entrance. The Bible's account of fall during a feast aligns with classical sources. The identity of 'Darius the Mede' remains debated—possibly Gubaru (Gobryas), Cyrus's general who governed Babylon; possibly an alternative name for Cyrus himself; or possibly Cambyses II. Regardless of precise identification, the historical fact remains: Babylon fell to Medio-Persian forces exactly as prophesied (Daniel 2, 5; Isaiah 13, 21, 44-45; Jeremiah 50-51). This fulfilled prophecy demonstrated Yahweh's sovereignty and encouraged Jewish exiles that restoration promises would likewise fulfill.
Reflection
- How does the overnight fall of 'impregnable' Babylon illustrate that no human power can resist God's determined purposes?
- What does the precise fulfillment of multiple prophecies teach about Scripture's reliability and God's sovereignty?
- Why does Scripture sometimes leave historical details (like Darius the Mede's precise identity) less than fully clear while emphasizing theological truths?
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Daniel 6:1, 9:1